Incredible Sites You Didn’t Know to Visit in Rome

Incredible Sites You Didn’t Know to Visit in Rome

Among travelers, Rome is most famous for its’ sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican. But this historical city has so much more to offer. Apart from the amazing food, wine, and architecture, Rome is home to some truly incredible neighborhoods and historical sites that are often overlooked by tourists. Of course, the main attractions are places you do not want to miss. The Vatican, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon are some of our favorites. However, take some time to sightsee the lesser known attractions in Rome. It is not only a way to avoid the crowds, but also a chance to discover the hidden gem sites in Rome.

HIDDEN GEM SITES IN ROME

Piramide di Caio Cestio (Pyramid of Cestius), Via Raffaele Persichetti – Witness an ancient Egyptian pyramid in the heart of Rome. The construction was initiated shortly after the Roman Empire’s conquest of Egypt. And as a result, the ancient structure was built as a tomb for Caius Cestius Epulone, a wealthy praetor.

The Keyhole, Aventine Hill – This peephole view can be found on top of one of Rome’s seven hills. At the end of the cul de sac is a large green door. Peer through the keyhole for a picture perfect view of Saint Peter’s Basilica. It is an incredible opportunity to view two nations states and one country.

San Giancolo Hill Viewpoint – Climb to the top of the hill through the neighborhood of Trastevere. Both sunrise or sunset is definitely the best time to go for the chance to witness one of the most spectacular views of the city

Ostia Antica – About 15 miles southwest of Rome lies the ancient Roman harbor city, and now one of Rome’s largest archaeological sites. Only a 30-minute train ride from Rome’s center is the opportunity to experience the ruins of this once a bustling commercial center. Witness ruins of an ancient Roman theater, shopping centers, mansions, apartments, docks, and warehouses.

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Concezione, Via Vittoria Veneto, 27 – Also nicknamed, The Bone Church, this unique place of worship is home to the Capuchin Crypt. The crypt is located just below the church, and holds a strategic design of bones along the wall, even with some fully intact skeletons.

Via Nicolo Piccolomini – When it comes to viewpoints in Rome, this is definitely a hidden gem. This amazing view of the Saint Peter’s Cupola is at the top of the Aurelia neighborhood. The most amazing part is that this viewpoint is also an optical illusion. As you move closer to the dome on Via Nicolo Piccolomini, by car, scooter or bus, the dome actually begins to appear smaller!

Palazzo Farnese, Piazza Farnese, 67 – Palazzo Farnese is one of the most beautiful, and important, Renaissance palaces in Rome. It is now the French Embassy, but still home to original Renaissance artwork such as frescoes by Raphael, intricate tapestries, and the Caracci Gallery. Check online for public opening hours, or at least stroll by in the evening to take a glimpse inside the illuminated windows of this ornate palace.